Wearable technology, or wearables, is a term that refers to devices worn on the body, mainly for tracking fitness goals or monitoring health. These devices, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smart clothing, have become increasingly popular in recent years. While they are useful for motivating individuals to lead a healthier lifestyle and keep track of their progress, they can also pose a threat to our privacy.
As wearable technology becomes more prevalent, there are certain legal issues surrounding its use and data privacy that individuals must be aware of. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the key legal issues surrounding wearables and how you can protect your privacy.
Data Privacy and Security
Wearable devices collect vast amounts of data about the wearer’s health, activity levels, and location. This data is often shared with third-party applications or stored in the cloud. It is essential to ensure that this data is adequately protected to prevent unauthorized access or use.
The primary legal issue surrounding data privacy and security is the collection, use, and storage of personal data by wearable devices. Wearables that collect personal data are subject to national and international consumer privacy regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe. Companies must ensure that their privacy policies are compliant with these regulations and that they clearly explain how they collect, store, and use data.
Additionally, some wearable companies share user data with third parties such as advertisers, insurers, or employers, which raises serious privacy concerns. Consumers must carefully evaluate the privacy policies of the wearables they purchase and consider whether the benefits outweigh the risks.
So, if you are planning to purchase a wearable device, you must always read the privacy policy of the company carefully.
Cybersecurity
Wearable devices are vulnerable to cyberattacks, endangering the privacy and safety of users. Unauthorized individuals can access sensitive information, such as personal health data, if the device is not adequately secured. Furthermore, cyberattacks can also result in the theft of financial information or other personal details.
The most common cybersecurity threats to wearables include phishing attacks, malware, and ransomware. These threats can be mitigated by practicing good security hygiene, such as not sharing personal information with unknown sources.
Consequently, it is essential to choose a wearable device from a company with a good cybersecurity reputation, and users should ensure their devices are running the latest security patches and updates.
Legal implications
As mentioned earlier, companies that manufacture and sell wearables are subject to national and international laws. Consequently, they must ensure they comply with these laws, specifically when it comes to how they collect, use, and store personal data.
If a wearable company violates data privacy rights, they can be liable for legal action. For example, in 2014, Google paid $17 million to settle US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that it deceived users by using tracking cookies to collect data on Safari devices.
Conclusion
Wearable technology is growing in popularity, and the legal issues surrounding data privacy and security will continue to increase as wearables become more advanced. Cybersecurity threats and legal implications must be taken into account when considering the adoption of wearable technology. Individuals should be cautious when purchasing wearables, which collect personal information.
Companies that manufacture wearables must comply with national and international regulations and protect their users’ privacy and data. They must provide transparent and easy-to-understand privacy policies and ensure that their security measures are up-to-date.
In summary, always research and ensure your wearable device is from a reputable company, protect your data and consider if the benefits outweigh potential risks.
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